Cardinals righthander Adam Wainwright said he sensed that others might be more concerned about his future contract than he was, but, just in case, he decided to take the pulse of the clubhouse.

“I just hope it’s not a burden,” said Wainwright, “so I asked Mitchell Boggs if anyone was getting bothered by it and he said no one had been asked a single question. So that’s a good thing.

“But it’s also humbling,” said Wainwright, who then laughed and said, “because you realize you’re not as big a deal as Albert (Pujols) was.”

Wainwright, who said he “assumes” he will be the opening day starter for the Cardinals on April 1, made his spring training debut with 2 2/3 scoreless innings, scattering four hits, on Monday. The Cardinals’ offense also made its first significant dent, pounding out 15 hits, including three homers, in a 10-2 exhibition drubbing of the Houston Astros.

Wainwright, throwing his changeup at least 10 times, allowed two singles and two doubles, one by former Cardinals pitcher and outfielder Rick Ankiel, but Ankiel was thrown out trying to make third base.